BERLIN — Gesa Schönwolff took on the role of a volunteer at a polling station in Berlin on Sunday, assisting voters as they entered and verifying their identification. After completing her duties, the 18-year-old cast her vote for the very first time.
She expressed her excitement about becoming an active participant in Germany’s democratic process, especially as she grapples with significant concerns, such as climate change, the ongoing war in Ukraine, the rise of extremism, and a new U.S. administration that appears to align itself with Russian President Vladimir Putin and the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
“Today, I believe more is at risk than it ever has been,” Schönwolff remarked. “It’s alarming to see authoritarian voices gaining traction globally. My hope is that we can elect a government that will effectively address these issues on an international scale.”
She expressed her support for the Greens party, known for advocating for environmentally sustainable policies and promoting robust support for Ukraine from Western nations.
“The Greens align most closely with my values, particularly concerning climate action,” she stated. “I feel that the other political groups are neglecting this crucial area, and it often falls by the wayside.”
The AfD, which has gained momentum amid growing concerns over immigration and security linked to a rise in newcomers from Syria, Afghanistan, and elsewhere, has provoked mixed feelings among the youth. While Schönwolff recognizes the fears surrounding migration, she is concerned that it overshadows other pressing issues.
“Many of my friends are anxious that the migration debate is eclipsing other vital matters such as environmental protection, education, and social justice,” she shared.
In a middle-class area characterized by detached homes in Pankow, a northern district of Berlin, she shared her experiences with newfound democracy after she had voted. She planned to return to her volunteering post later to help tally the votes once the polls closed in the evening.
Schönwolff was pleasantly surprised by the respect she received from the other volunteers despite her youth. Unfortunately, some of her friends, who had not yet reached the voting age of 18, were disappointed since they had anticipated participating in this election. The elections had been moved up unexpectedly when the coalition government led by outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz disbanded late last year.
“I am thrilled to have had the chance to vote today, and naturally, I hope that my contribution will help counter the rising right-wing sentiments,” she concluded. “That brings me a sense of fulfillment.”
